Michigan State Marriage Laws 

Couples planning to tie the knot in Michigan, also known as The Wolverine State, must be at least 18 years of age and must provide a social security number, valid driver’s license and certified copy of their birth certificate, along with parents’ addresses and mother’s maiden name, when applying for a marriage license.  Neither blood nor medical tests are required, but there is a three-day waiting period.  If sufficient cause can be shown, this waiting period may be waived in some instances.  If either of the intended were previously married, the date and reason for the marriage ending must be provided.  If a previous marriage ended within the last six months, the divorce decree or former spouse’s death certificate must be provided. 

Individuals who are under the age of 18 and wish to be married in the state of Michigan must have parental consent.  Parents and/or guardian(s) must appear with valid ID and proof of custody (if applicable).  Anyone age 15 and under must have both parental consent and permission from the probate court before getting married. 

The state of Michigan does not have any residential requirements, which means you can exchange vows even if you are not a resident of the state.  Vacationers, former residents and all others are free to tie the knot here.  Michigan residents must apply for a marriage license in the county where at least one of the intended lives, and non-residents must apply in the county where they plan to marry.  Once granted, a marriage license is valid for 30 days.  Application and/or marriage license fees may vary by county, which means you must check with the local courthouse regarding the actual cost and acceptable payment methods.  The average cost is $20.00 for residents and $30.00 for non-residents, and it is advisable that applicants have cash on hand in the event that credit cards are not accepted. 

Same sex marriage is not permitted in the state of Michigan.  Common law marriages, which are those that a state may acknowledge after a couple has lived together for a certain amount of time, are not recognized in Michigan unless they were formerly legalized in another state.  A wedding can be officiated by a minister or pastor of a recognized religious society, a federal, probate, district or municipal judge, district court magistrate, mayor (in their city) and/or a county clerk. 

Planning a wedding isn’t state law, but it certainly makes for a more memorable experience.  The official state flower, which is the apple blossom, would be ideal for a bridal bouquet, wedding decorations, etc.  There are a number of tranquil locations, resorts and tourist destinations that would make Michigan a wonderful choice for an upcoming wedding. 

The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only.  It should not be used as, in place of or in conjunction with professional legal advice.  Marriage laws and requirements can change, which means that you should check with your county courthouse regarding the application process for a marriage license, laws, fees and other requirements.   

To obtain a copy of a Michigan marriage certificate, send $26.00 to: Vital Records Request

P.O. Box 30721, Lansing, MI 48909.

Code of Michigan

Chapter 551 provides information on Michigan marriage laws.